Why don't we allow our trail riders to help tack up their horses before rides?
Well, a little bit because people get in our way, but mostly because horses really don't like getting dressed by strangers. Despite what it may seem, tacking up is actually a quite intimate experience for a horse and requires a great deal of specificity, routine and trust. So, while it might seem like a good bonding moment for the human, it can actually be very emotionally difficult for horses to be continually readied by strangers.
It is already difficult enough on our horses to have so many of our students preparing them for lessons. Adding non-regular riders to the routine would just make their lives that much more difficult and can lead to bad behaviors as horses exhibit their feelings of personal invasion. So, while we appreciate your help getting ready, we like the safety and happiness of you and the horses more.
That said, our horses do appreciate affectionate petting and grooming from their riders after their ride, once they get to know you!!
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